Beyond the results, here are 7 reflections.
1. Europe or America: Where is the level higher?
Despite attempts at comparison, reality doesn't allow for definitive conclusions. Participation was diverse, and not all of the American stars traveled to Girona. Sofía Gómez Villafañe, a leading figure in North American gravel, left her mark; Beers and Sturm took the podium. Even stretching the metaphor, the chess match ended in a draw. The next big event will be Unbound Gravel, a new—and equally fruitless—opportunity to fuel this transatlantic duel.
2. The revelation: Paula Blasi
The international presence clearly dominated the top spots at La Traka 2025. However, one name deserves to be highlighted: Paula Blasi. The cyclist put in an impressive performance, consistently holding onto fourth and fifth positions, without the benefit of large groups to protect her from the wind or dictate her pace. Without a doubt, for us, she was the surprise of this edition of La Traka.
3. La Traka: an international phenomenon
Traka has established itself as an international phenomenon: 74 nationalities participated among the 4,500 registered participants. Despite this, the low local participation is surprising (fewer than 20 % participants were Spanish) at an event ideal for competing against the world's gravel elite. Strengthening the master categories, as the UCI Gravel Series so cleverly does, could attract more national cyclists interested in specific competitive goals.
4. The challenge of drafting : a fairer competition
The theme of the drafting once again became the focus of attention. Some runners, such as Sarah Sturm, expressed the difficulties that still exist both in overtaking men in the race and in preventing male groups from getting on their wheels at key moments. However, at the 2024 Santa Vall, runners were still seen using male pacemakers to improve their times. The introduction of the ban on drafting and the establishment of separate departures have marked a turning point in just one season. The progress is undeniable and unstoppable.
5. The Traka: a large family of 4,500 members
Traka impresses with its numbers: 4,500 registered members and 470 employees. But its success isn't measured solely by numbers. Gerard, Cris, and their team embrace the project as their own, and that passion permeates every detail. They've managed to create a bond with the gravel community that goes far beyond the sporting or economic sphere. It's a small, powerful detail that explains everything. Hopefully, Traka won't be absorbed by impersonal structures for many years to come.
6. 200 or 360: The key choice
The future seems marked by a natural evolution: the Traka 200 is about maximum intensity, where young talents are increasingly difficult to control; pure performance. The 360 demands not only excellent physical condition but also a good dose of strategy and experience; it's endurance. The level no longer allows names or a track record to guarantee good results. Every aspect will have to be fine-tuned to the maximum to aspire to success.
7. Doping: much ado before, silence after
No incident, no scandal, no news.
That's it.